Artex walls, characterized by their textured, swirling patterns, were a popular choice in home decor during the 1970s and 80s. While some homeowners embrace this retro aesthetic, others may wish to cover or remove Artex for a more modern look. This guide will walk you through the process of covering Artex walls, ensuring a smooth, professional finish.
Before you begin, it's crucial to understand that covering Artex walls is not a simple task. The textured surface requires careful preparation and the right materials to achieve a successful outcome. This article will provide you with a comprehensive step-by-step guide, helping you to transform your Artex walls into a blank canvas ready for your chosen finish.
Preparing the Artex Wall
The first step in covering Artex walls is preparing the surface. This involves addressing any cracks, holes, or damage, and ensuring the wall is clean and dry.
Start by inspecting the wall for any imperfections. Artex walls often have small cracks or holes, which need to be filled. Use a suitable filler, such as an interior wall filler, and apply it using a filler knife. Allow the filler to dry completely before sanding it down using fine-grit sandpaper. This will ensure a smooth surface ready for the next stage.
Cleaning the Wall
Once the wall is smooth, it's essential to clean it thoroughly. Artex walls can accumulate dirt and dust over time, which can hinder the adhesion of new materials. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the wall, removing any dirt or residue. Allow the wall to dry completely before proceeding.
For walls with heavy staining or marks, you may need to use a mild detergent or cleaning solution. Always test a small, hidden area first to ensure the cleaner doesn't damage the Artex or discolor the wall.
Priming the Wall
Priming the wall is a crucial step in preparing Artex walls for covering. A primer creates a barrier between the Artex and the new material, improving adhesion and preventing moisture from being absorbed into the new finish.
Apply a coat of primer using a paint roller or brush, ensuring full coverage of the wall. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions before moving on to the next step. Priming the wall not only improves the final finish but also helps to reduce the amount of paint or wallpaper required.
Covering the Artex Wall
Once the wall is prepared, you can begin covering the Artex with your chosen material. The most common methods are using wallpaper or plasterboard, each with its own advantages and challenges.
Wallpaper is a popular choice for covering Artex walls, as it can create a smooth, seamless finish. However, it requires careful application and may not be suitable for all wall types. Plasterboard, on the other hand, provides a solid, smooth surface but involves more extensive work and may require professional installation.
Using Wallpaper to Cover Artex Walls
Wallpapering Artex walls requires careful preparation and precise application. Start by measuring the wall and cutting the wallpaper to size. Apply a layer of wallpaper adhesive to the back of the wallpaper using a wallpaper brush or roller.
Carefully position the wallpaper on the wall, starting from the top and working your way down. Use a wallpaper smoother or brush to remove any air bubbles and ensure the wallpaper adheres evenly to the wall. Repeat this process for each strip of wallpaper, ensuring they align correctly and overlap slightly at the seams.
Using Plasterboard to Cover Artex Walls
Covering Artex walls with plasterboard involves more extensive work but provides a solid, smooth surface ready for painting or wallpapering. Begin by measuring and cutting the plasterboard to size, ensuring it fits snugly against the wall.
Attach the plasterboard to the wall using screws or adhesive, following the manufacturer's instructions. Once the plasterboard is secure, apply a layer of joint compound to the seams using a joint knife. Allow the compound to dry before sanding it down using fine-grit sandpaper.
Finally, apply a second coat of joint compound and allow it to dry. Sand the wall smooth and prepare it for painting or wallpapering using a suitable primer.
Covering Artex walls is a rewarding task that transforms your space into a modern, inviting haven. With careful preparation and the right materials, you can achieve a professional finish that you'll be proud to show off. So, grab your tools and get started on your Artex wall transformation today!